When did you first realize you could be funny – and when did you decide to do it for a living?
I first used humour to make friends at school. I wasn’t particularly good-looking, clever or tough, but I discovered that I could make people laugh. Sadly that began to backfire, because the school I attended was rather rough and it wasn’t a good idea to draw attention to yourself for any reason... except if you could fight. I couldn’t, so I became good at running. Away. I was so good at running, I thought perhaps I could have a career as in sport. Then, rather suddenly, I developed large breasts and realised my days as an athlete were over. So I chose another school, and the comedy path.
How did your journey to successful performing artist develop?
You are very kind to call me a “successful performing artist” (smiles modestly and blushes). I shall now use that quote on all my promotional literature. The journey began with expectation and excitement, much like a trip to the beach with my family as a child. There was a lot of travelling and enjoying the scenery, then expectation turned to anxiety as we realised how far we had to go. We just wanted to get there. My comedy journey is a lot like that, except I don’t think there is a destination, nor is my sister pinching me when my parents aren’t looking, asking “Are we there yet?” or cheating at Travel Scrabble.
Do you have any comedy heroes?
There are many comedians I admire who are currently working on the circuit in the UK, the US and Australia. I was inspired to become a comedian after hearing Billy Connolly on the radio, and watching him and Eddie Izzard on TV. I was also inspired to become Scottish or English but to this day, even my accent remains staunchly Australian.
Do you do other things besides comedy performances?
Yes I do. I enjoy being nice to people in shops and paying strangers compliments. I currently live in London where mostly people keep to themselves. Sometimes they can be downright rude. I like to surprise them by making eye contact, smiling and speaking to them. It really creeps them out.
Is being a professional comedian a tough existence?
Everyone I know, no matter what profession they are in, seems to be going through a tough time financially at the moment. Comedy is no different to any other industry in that it has its ups and downs. But I am incredibly honoured to receive an income from doing what I love – showing off.
Will it be your first time in Malta? What are your thoughts about coming here?
Yes, it is and I am very excited. I have heard that the good people of Malta are all extremely beautiful (well, actually “stunning” was the word that was used) and incredibly friendly, welcoming visitors to their country in the most hospitable way imaginable – by laughing uproariously at any joke they make. Especially if the visitors are originally from Australia.
Which are the most memorable countries you have visited?
The NEXT time I am asked this question, I shall of course answer “Malta”, because I can already sense that I am going to have an unforgettable time there. I’ve been fortunate to have visited many countries, but Bucharest in Romania, and Croatia, to date, are the most memorable places I have been to. It was a combination of the gigs themselves, the countries, the people I travelled and toured with, and the crazily relaxed smoking laws.
What are your best, and worst memories of your performances so far?
I have had great gigs and I have been utterly appalling. It can take you by surprise – you drive four hours with three comedians you’ve only just met, when we arrive we find that we’re performing in the most remote, dingy pub with no mike, and only the light that is usually focused on the dartboard shining on us – and the dartboard is behind us, making us feel more vulnerable than usual. But the audience who come to the gig are so happy that we’ve put in the effort that it’s an absolutely sensational show.
Has anyone ever been offended by one of your jokes?
No-one has ever told me that I offended them onstage. However my material has, on occasion, been misinterpreted, which I find offensive. So I ‘boo’ the person whilst they are giving me their version of my words and give them a slow handclap until they leave me alone. Or I run away, just like I did when I was at school.
Have you worked with any other well-known comedians?
Every well-known comedian I have met or worked with is absolutely lovely – in fact, most comedians are good people and I enjoy their company. If I happen to work with less-than-delightful people, I just let them get on with the business of being unpleasant and make an effort not to gig with them again.
Are there any particular goals or ambitions that you wish to achieve in the comedy field?
To travel the world, meet good people and make them laugh. So far, this plan is coming together nicely!
BOX
The line-up for the Eden Comedy Club Stand Up Comedy Night night will feature acts spanning from across the globe, including the headliner, Geoff Boyz who hails from Scotland. Having established himself as a versatile comedian on TV, radio and on stage, Geoff is also known for his superbly funny celebrity impressions, including that of Robert De Niro, Al Pacino and Joe Pesci.
Also showcasing his talent will be Steve Hall, whose regular appearance on Paramount Comedy Channel’s ‘Edinburgh & Beyond’ was followed by multiple award nominations. The third act is the fabulous Australian Kim Hope, whose phenomenally energetic stage charisma has graced the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Last but not least is resident MC Geoff Whiting whose regular visits to Malta have made him a hit with the show’s regular comedy audience.
This event is sponsored by Heineken and supported by 89.7 Bay and Waterbiscuit. For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.edenculture.com.mt